SOMERSWORTH - Republican Michael Rhode of Rollinsford defeated Democratic rival Kenneth Ward of Rollinsford for control of the Strafford County State Rep. District 21 seat. The district consists of Somersworth Wards 1-5, Dover Ward 5 and 6, and Somersworth.

Rhode, who beat Ward by a final total of 4,355 to 4,034, describes himself as a fiscal conservative who understands that compromise is necessary to achieve best results. He would be steadfast in opposing any attempt to institute a state income tax and lists one of his goals as acting and voting in the best interests of voters and to also listen to their diverse opinions.

Rhode retired from Liberty Mutual in May of 2011 after 37 years. He has been married to his wife Toni for 33 years. Rhode worked on budgets while at Liberty Mutual and as a selectman in Rollinsford.